A quirky character mapping the world and itself will bring those discoveries to life for younger Wairarapa children and first-time theatre-goers in the region.
Pippa Drakeford, publicist for Capital E National Theatre for Children, said Shu's Song is a new live show created by Laura Gaudin, Rachel Callinan and Gina Moss for children at early childhood centres and up to Year 3 primary school pupils across New Zealand.
"In just over 45 minutes, audiences will follow the journey of Shu learning to adapt to an unfamiliar world, gradually turning curiosity into confidence with each new encounter," she said.
The show launched its nationwide run in Palmerston North last week and will stay on the road until mid-November, stopping for two performances -- at 9.30am and 11am -- at the Carterton Events Centre on Tuesday June 28.
Ms Drakeford said bookings had already been made for the Wairarapa show by St Patrick's School and Hadlow pre-school and invitations had been sent to schools and early childhood centres throughout the region.
Marianne Taylor, creative producer for Capital E National Theatre for Children said the curiosity of the show's central character Shu about new objects and environments "encourages ideas such as exploration, identity, belonging and critical thinking".
Ms Taylor said the show aimed to delight and inspire young people and provided "a great opportunity for children to explore and discover drama and sound, to understand the concepts of what can be achieved when working together as a group, and to respond to live theatre -- another experience that may be new in their lives".
"Sound and music are key elements of the show, using tone, volume, and composition to demonstrate emotion, communication and purpose," Ms Taylor said.
"In fact, sound, movement, puppetry and light replace speech, creating a non-verbal visual theatre experience that provides each audience member with opportunity to connect and understand the story through their individual perspective.
"Shu's Song reflects a young person's world of discovery and imagination. It tells a story we will all recognise -- a path to understanding our complex world and the challenges faced along the way."
Bookings are open for all Capital E shows with further information on how to book, dates and times. To book go online to visit Capital E website at capitale.org.nz.